Movies

Our Film Critic’s Favorite 2025 Oscar Nominees

BBG News

Instead of relying on those who predict Oscar winners for financial gain, isn’t it more enjoyable to cheer for your personal favorites instead? That’s what I do every year. To be honest, I approach the Oscars with a certain level of skepticism. In my opinion, Academy voters don’t always select the best films or performances. They can sometimes be swayed by campaigns, peer influence, or popular trends. At times—I must apologize—their selections seem to stem from poor taste.

In anticipation of the Oscars, I strongly advise that only our own tastes should matter, and you should feel the same way about yours. With this in mind, here are a few nominees I particularly admire this year—as well as one performance that left me shocked for being overlooked by the Academy.

Timothée Chalamet, nominated for Best Actor in A Complete Unknown

Timothée Chalamet is an exceptionally talented actor, yet it’s natural not to admire every role he takes on. In recent films like “Dune” (parts 1 and 2) and “Bones and All”, my enthusiasm for his acting waned. However, this feeling didn’t persist. Instead, Chalamet delivered a powerful comeback in his portrayal of early-1960s Bob Dylan in James Mangold’s exceptional film “A Complete Unknown”. Chalamet skillfully encapsulates the arrogance and audacity of the young Dylan. His interpretation hints at the callousness and cruelty, particularly towards women, that this budding genius might have exhibited. This performance, which transcends mere imitation, is both beautiful and captivating because it goes beyond simple mimicry.

Yura Borisov, nominated in the Best Supporting Actor category for Anora

I step into Sean Baker’s movie, Anora, as Igor, a tough guy tasked with managing the spirited dancer and sex worker, Ani, portrayed by Mikey Madison. Given my appearance, it’s clear why I was brought in to maintain order. However, Borisov masterfully transforms his character from a rough exterior into a tender, radiant performance through furtive glances and subtle actions. By the film’s end, it becomes evident that he possesses the most sincere heart among the male characters. First impressions can be misleading, and Borisov skillfully demonstrates this in the most enjoyable manner.

Flow, nominated for Best Animated Film

At the moment, everyone could use a touch of optimism, and Latvian filmmaker Gints Zilbalodis provides just that with his subtle yet potent dose in the wordless environmental fable titled Flow. Fleeing an abrupt, catastrophic flood, a clever, playful black cat manages to board a vessel occupied by a dog, a capybara, a lemur, and even a secretary bird with long legs. Despite their disparities, they find a way to coexist harmoniously. This tranquil, minimalist film subtly conveys its message without being overbearing. Instead, it invites us into a world of enchanting beauty, suggesting that cooperation – our sole means of survival – is essential.

Arianne Phillips, nominated in the Best Costume category for A Complete Unknown, and Lisy Christl, nominated in the same category for Conclave

Absolutely, it’s unfair to support two nominees in the same category because I’m torn between them. The costumes for “A Complete Unknown” are truly remarkable – a mix of slouchy suede jackets, worn fisherman’s caps, and smart-hippie-girl dresses that perfectly capture the laid-back vibe of 1960s New York, and they also pay homage to Bob Dylan’s personal style. I must admit, I have a soft spot for regal papal vestments in “Conclave”. From the cloaks adorned with golden threads, to the stylish Cardinal hats, and the soft suede of those red slippers, Christl’s designs are simply stunning and embody the best fashion associated with Catholicism.

Porcelain War, nominated for Best Documentary

The thoughtful and beautiful documentary titled “Porcelain War,” by Brendan Bellomo and Slava Leontyev, presents a unique viewpoint on war, focusing on three Ukrainian artists who persist in their artistic vision amidst Russian aggression. Artists like Leontyev and his wife, Anya Stasenko, craft delicate porcelain creatures that echo the natural charm of Ukraine, while Leontyev also educates ordinary citizens on weapon usage to protect their country. Andrey Stefanov, an artist who swiftly mastered filmmaking, serves as the documentary’s cinematographer. “Porcelain War” underscores how artistic vision is essential, especially in times of war, symbolizing all that’s worth preserving and fighting for.

The Seed of the Sacred Fig, nominated for Best International Feature

As a movie enthusiast, I recently found myself deeply moved by “The Seed of the Sacred Fig,” a film created by the talented Iranian director Mohammad Rasoulof. This thought-provoking piece was born from the tragic events following the death of Mahsa Amini, who passed away in police custody after being arrested for not adhering strictly to hijab guidelines.

The narrative follows a dedicated government employee who seizes an opportunity for promotion that promises benefits for him, his wife, and their two adolescent daughters. However, as the story unfolds, these young women begin to question the sinister undertones of their privileged life, thanks to their father’s job. The film delves into what transpires when a nation feels entitled to exert control over its women, raising questions about power and oppression.

Sadly, Rasoulof was compelled to flee his home country last spring, after Iranian authorities denounced this film and imposed an eight-year prison sentence on him for his unyielding stance. What makes “The Seed of the Sacred Fig” unique is that while it presents itself like a gripping thriller, it tackles real-life injustices that demand our attention and reflection.

Anora, nominated for Best Picture

As a movie enthusiast, I’d say that Sean Baker’s captivating tale, starring the exceptional Mikey Madison as a dancer and sex worker, is all about shattered dreams – specifically, discovering that the prince you thought was perfect isn’t quite so regal after all. It’s a film that delves into the heart-wrenching reality of realizing the truth about someone, and sometimes, rejecting it, is the only way to pave the path towards happiness. Anora serves as a poignant reminder that while shattered dreams may seem like a tragedy, it’s only once we’ve cleared away the debris that we can truly see our way forward with crystal-clear clarity.

Marianne Jean-Baptiste, not nominated for Best Actress in Hard Truths

The term “Oscars snub” isn’t accurate because the Academy isn’t a single individual who intentionally excludes certain actors or films out of spite; instead, it’s a group of people who decide winners through voting. However, it’s important to admit that sometimes they make mistakes. In Mike Leigh’s movie, Hard Truths, Marianne Jean-Baptiste portrays Pansy, a Caribbean-British woman who seems to find joy in misery, making life difficult for her son and husband. Her sister tolerates her, but even she gets frustrated sometimes. As viewers, we also grow tired of Pansy’s constant negativity. Despite this, Pansy is someone we all know – a person who causes more trouble for herself than others. The story offers reasons for Pansy’s anger, suggesting she may be dealing with severe depression and prolonged grief. However, Jean-Baptiste’s performance reminds us that Pansy is a complex individual, not just a condition or diagnosis. Unfortunately, it seems the Academy overlooked this nuanced portrayal.

Read More

2025-03-03 00:06

Previous post Millie Bobby Brown breaks silence on Britney Spears biopic rumours
Next post How to fix Moster Hunter Wilds textures not loading